Two Colorado Teachers Selected for NASA's Prestigious LiftOff Summer Institute

Two teachers from Colorado SKIES Academy have been selected to participate in the NASA LiftOff Summer Institute 2025, a professional development program that promises to bring cutting-edge aerospace education directly into the classroom. Mary Gispan and Craig Kemper will join a select group of educators in Houston, Texas, from June 23-27, 2025, to engage in an intensive learning experience focused on space exploration and innovation.

The program, supported by the Colorado Space Grant Consortium, will provide the educators with a comprehensive opportunity to interact directly with NASA scientists and engineers. Participants will tour advanced facilities and engage in hands-on STEM activities designed to translate real-world aerospace experiences into compelling classroom curriculum.

Campus Director Meredith Motey emphasized the significance of this opportunity, highlighting how the experience will enrich the school's learning community. By connecting educators with NASA's innovative environment, the institute aims to inspire students and cultivate a deeper understanding of scientific and engineering principles.

This selection represents more than just a professional development opportunity; it signifies a commitment to advancing STEM education through direct exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and exploration. The teachers will return with unique insights, curriculum resources, and inspiration that can potentially transform how students understand space science and technological innovation.

Colorado SKIES Academy, a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 6-8, continues to demonstrate its dedication to providing exceptional educational experiences that prepare students for future careers in scientific and technological fields. By supporting teachers' professional growth and exposure to NASA's innovative ecosystem, the school reinforces its mission of igniting passion for learning and critical thinking.